More thrills, more family fun: Virginia's theme parks and
mountain resorts continue to grow
This autumn, Kings Dominion is turning up the scares with
the launch of an all-new Halloween attraction inspired by the legendary Diablo
video game series.
But beyond the Halloween frights, the announcement
highlights something many visitors may be surprised to discover: Virginia is
home to an impressive mix of theme parks, waterparks, mountain resorts and
family-friendly attractions, making it easy to add a little adventure to any
trip.
Located just north of Richmond, Kings Dominion's popular
Halloween Haunt returns from 18 September, bringing haunted mazes, scare zones,
live entertainment and atmospheric nighttime rides. New for 2026 is Diablo:
The Infernal Path, an immersive experience inspired by the globally popular
video game franchise. During the day, the park takes on a more family-friendly
feel with its Tricks and Treats celebrations, featuring live shows, seasonal
entertainment and plenty of Halloween fun for younger visitors.
For those looking to pair adrenaline-fuelled attractions
with a wider Virginia holiday, there are plenty of options across the state.
World-class roller coasters and waterpark adventures
In Williamsburg, Busch Gardens Williamsburg combines
award-winning coasters, themed villages and live entertainment in one of the
most distinctive theme parks in the United States. Whether it's soaring through
the air on record-breaking rides or wandering through beautifully landscaped
European-inspired settings, the park offers something for every age. Seasonal
events throughout the year, including Howl-O-Scream and Christmas Town, provide
even more reasons to visit.
Just a short drive away, Water Country USA is the
state's largest waterpark, with everything from relaxing lazy rivers to
thrilling water slides, making it an ideal stop during the warmer months.
Virginia's family attractions scene is also set to get even
bigger with the arrival of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Virginia in
Spotsylvania. Opening in November 2026, the resort will feature Virginia's
largest indoor waterpark, offering more than 175,000 square feet of year-round
fun, alongside accommodation, dining and entertainment all under one roof.
Adventure beyond the theme parks
For families who enjoy combining outdoor adventures with
resort-style facilities, Virginia's mountain regions offer plenty to explore.
Set in the scenic Shenandoah Valley, Massanutten Resort
is a year-round destination where indoor waterpark fun sits alongside mountain
biking, ziplining, hiking and winter snow sports. It is the kind of place where
one day can be spent racing down slides and the next exploring the Blue Ridge
Mountains. The resort is also currently enhancing its waterpark experience,
Shenandoah20, a major upgrade designed to bring even more splash-filled fun to
families and adventure seekers.
Further south and west, Wintergreen Resort, Bryce Resort
and The Omni Homestead Resort offer skiing and snowboarding during winter,
while warmer months bring opportunities for hiking, golf and outdoor adventures
among some of Virginia's most beautiful landscapes.
Exciting new additions on the coast
Virginia Beach is also welcoming new attractions. The
much-anticipated Atlantic Park development provides a new hub for
entertainment, dining and outdoor recreation just moments from the oceanfront.
At its centre is the cutting-edge surf lagoon developed in
partnership with surfing legend Kelly Slater, creating a new way to experience
the coast whether you're a seasoned surfer or simply looking to try something
different.
Visitors can also stay at the new SITIO Hotel, adding a
stylish new accommodation option within the development and placing
restaurants, entertainment and the beach all within easy reach.
Ready to start planning your next US Adventure?
From thrilling roller coasters and splash-filled waterparks
to mountain adventures and coastal escapes, Virginia offers countless ways to
add a little adventure to your USA holiday. Whether you're planning a family
getaway, a road trip through the Blue Ridge Mountains or a beach break with a
difference, there's never been a better time to discover what the state has to
offer. For more ideas, itineraries and insider tips, explore our Virginia blog
and start planning your next adventure.
Posted by: Virginia Tourism Corporation
Posted on: 22/09/2026